A ‘THRILLED’ teacher at a Rugby secondary school has been crowned the best in her field.
Susan Mighall of Rugby High School has won the Physics Teacher of the Year Award 2025 from the Institute of Physics.
Susan, the school’s Curriculum Lead for Physics and GCSE Combined Science, received the award in recognition of her work in growing the number of girls taking A-level physics at her school – and in the wider midlands area by supporting the professional development of physics teachers.
Her lessons mix academic aspiration with fun activities, such as using a methane rocket to study the conservation of momentum or using a foil wire and magnet to play music.
She has organised Year 10 careers events to promote STEM careers, trips to CERN on the France-Switzerland border, and collaborative ventures with the art/drama department during activities week.
Susan has also been involved in many projects to share and develop good practice in physics teaching.
She told The Observer: “I was really thrilled to receive the award.
“I’ve had such a wonderful response from students, staff and friends. It’s feels very special to be recognised for my many years of teaching and developing physics in the classroom for myself and others.
“I’ve always been really passionate about the fun and joy in physics and have embraced the challenge of the misconception that ‘physics is difficult’ and ‘not many girls do physics’. Showing cool demonstrations and embedding meaningful practical work really engages and excites.
“My own physics studies were in very male-dominated labs and classrooms, and I saw that girls are just as able as boys.
“As a nation becoming more reliant on technology, we need the best physics minds in careers in this sector – and those minds can be male or female.”
Rugby High Headteacher Mark Grady said the award was richly deserved.
He added: “Susan’s dedication to physics teaching, and the development of young physicists and new physics teachers, is truly exceptional.
“We are very lucky to have her insight, wisdom and skill, and our students tell us time and again what a phenomenal teacher she is.
“This award only confirms what those of us who have worked with Susan already know – she is an inspiration to students and colleagues alike.”
